Mexico City, June 12: The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicked off with high drama as co-hosts Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in a historic opening match that featured a record three red cards, the most ever in a World Cup opener.
Playing before a packed and passionate home crowd at the iconic Estadio Azteca, Mexico made a dream start to their campaign. Julián Quiñones etched his name into World Cup history by scoring the tournament’s first goal in the ninth minute after capitalizing on a defensive error. Veteran striker Raúl Jiménez doubled the advantage in the 67th minute with a powerful header, securing all three points for the hosts.
However, the football took a back seat as disciplinary issues dominated the second half. South Africa’s Sphephelo Sithole was the first player sent off after bringing down Brian Gutiérrez and denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity. Matters worsened for the African side when Themba Zwane received a red card following a VAR review for violent conduct, reducing South Africa to nine men. Mexico captain César Montes was also dismissed in stoppage time after a reckless challenge, ensuring the match ended with ten men on each side.
The three dismissals established a new World Cup opening-match record and became one of the most talked-about moments of the tournament’s first day. Football analysts noted that the match produced more red cards than goals, underlining the intensity and controversy that marked the contest.
Despite the defeat, South Africa coach Hugo Broos praised his team’s defensive organization and suggested the scoreline did not fully reflect their efforts. He accepted the first red card decision but questioned the dismissal of Zwane, describing it as harsh.
For Mexico, the victory was particularly significant as it marked the nation’s first-ever win in a World Cup opening match. Midfielder Erik Lira expressed confidence in the team’s potential, stating that “the sky is the limit” as the co-hosts look ahead to their next Group A fixture against South Korea.
With the tournament now underway across Mexico, the United States, and Canada, fans can expect more excitement in what promises to be the biggest FIFA World Cup in history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches.
